First-Ever G20 Meeting Outside Member States Launches In Cairo

(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) CAIRO, Sept 1 (KUNA) -- The first official meeting of the G20 held outside member states convened on Monday in the Egyptian capital, Cairo, with participation from G20 member countries, invited states, as well as various international organizations and financial institutions.
In his address to the third meeting of the G20 food security committee, Egyptian Minister of Finance Ahmad Kouchouk emphasized that national efforts alone are not sufficient to achieve food security objectives.
He underlined the indispensable role of the international community, noting that such cooperation is crucial to enhancing resilience against shocks, mobilizing investment in sustainable agriculture, and expanding the role of the private sector as a partner in sustainable development.
Kouchouk further noted that Egypt's hosting of this meeting underscores its role in ensuring that the voices and priorities of food-importing developing countries are reflected in global venues, and for reinforcing the African perspective within the G20 framework.
He stressed that food security is not merely a humanitarian concern, but also a matter of economic and social stability, warning that rising food prices and shortages may erode social cohesion, strain public finances, and hinder progress toward sustainable development.
The minister pointed out that the meeting comes at a time of complex global challenges, with ongoing geopolitical tensions, conflicts, and disruptions in supply chains continuing to impact global economies.
He added that soaring energy costs, climate-related issues, and currency fluctuations have driven food prices to record highs, negatively affecting nutrition, livelihoods, and social stability.
The three-day meeting in Cairo will review reports and studies prepared by the G20 food security committee and work towards drafting the ministerial communique, which will be presented later this month in South Africa.
This communique is expected to be central in shaping G20 policy priorities on food price stability and resilience-building.
This meeting marks a historic milestone, as it is the first official G20 congregation to be held outside of the member countries since the group's inception, reflecting appreciation for Egypt's continued efforts. (end)
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